Employees of Horn Afrik, Shabelle and Simba radios in the capital, Mogadishu, said troops took computers, cameras and radio equipment, accusing them of siding with and reporting the activities of the insurgents.

"The troops came in, took our equipment and arrested our boss (director, Muqtar Mohamed Hirabe) without explanation. We do not know why they are targeting us," Mohamed Abdullahi, a Shabelle radio staff member said.

"We are deeply sorry that Somali journalists are still under government oppression," Horn Afrik cameraman Abdi Daqane said.

The three stations and several other independent outlets were briefly taken off air three times last year, prompting criticism from press freedom watchdogs.

Last year, at least eight journalists - including the owner and a presenter of Horn Afrik - were killed in separate attacks by unidentified gunmen.